Approximately 200 people have fled Nkwanta, the capital of the Nkwanta South Municipal Assembly, seeking safety in Pampawie, Ahamansu, and other destinations in the neighboring Kadjebi District. This mass exodus follows renewed violent clashes that have left seven people dead, several others injured, and multiple properties destroyed.
Kadjebi, which shares a border with the Nkwanta Municipality, has become a sanctuary for displaced residents escaping the violence. Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Madam Agnes Afua Obour, a linguist and opinion leader at Pampawie, described the plight of those fleeing the chaos. “Our kinsmen who are distressed due to the situation have reached out for support to return home. We transferred money to some to facilitate their movement, with many arriving late Friday,” she explained. She emphasized the gravity of the situation in Nkwanta and called for collective efforts to find a lasting resolution.
Hussein Abdulai, the Assemblyman for the Ahamansu Electoral Area, also confirmed the arrival of displaced persons in his community. “People have been arriving since Thursday, with more coming on Friday and even Saturday. I am recording their details and will compile a comprehensive report on those fleeing to Ahamansu,” he told GNA.
The violence reportedly began during a burial ceremony at a cemetery in Nkwanta. According to an eyewitness, a group of mourners had gone to bury a relative when unidentified armed men suddenly opened fire. Fortunately, the mourners escaped unharmed as they had already cremated the deceased before the attack.
The aftermath of the violence has been devastating. Seven people have been confirmed dead, while eight houses and shops have been set ablaze, leaving countless families homeless and traumatized. The streets of Nkwanta, once a bustling hub of activity, now resemble a ghost town. The few remaining residents live in fear, while military and police patrols dominate the deserted streets.
Superintendent of Police Frank Nana Asomaning, the Kadjebi District Police Commander, stated that although he had not received official reports of refugees arriving in the district, he was aware of the situation. Similarly, Kadjebi District Coordinating Director Cletus Chevure confirmed that no formal information had been communicated regarding the influx of displaced persons.
In the wake of the violence, military personnel have been deployed to Nkwanta to restore order. Armed forces in armored vehicles have taken strategic positions throughout the township, with patrol units maintaining a visible presence. While some residents have expressed relief at the military’s arrival, others have voiced concerns about potential human rights violations.
The GNA team observed heart-wrenching scenes of displaced residents making perilous journeys to safety. Pregnant women, in particular, faced immense challenges. One expectant mother, Madam Serwaa Afia Twumasi, shared her distressing experience. “I’m scared for my life and the life of my unborn child,” she said, tears streaming down her face as she navigated the bushes to escape the conflict.
Children have also been severely affected by the crisis. Many have been forced to abandon their schools, leaving them uncertain about their future. The psychological toll on these young minds is immeasurable, as they are constantly exposed to fear and insecurity. Parents have expressed grave concerns about how the disruption will impact their children’s education and well-being in the long run.
The violence in Nkwanta stems from a long-standing dispute over the ownership of the township. The conflict involves the Akyode, Adele, and Challa ethnic groups, whose tensions have fueled repeated clashes over the years. Despite efforts to mediate the conflict, the deep-seated grievances among the groups have made it difficult to achieve lasting peace.
The displaced residents of Nkwanta are calling for urgent intervention from the government and other stakeholders to address the root causes of the conflict. With homes destroyed and livelihoods disrupted, many are left with little hope of returning to normalcy anytime soon. The displaced individuals in Kadjebi and other safe zones are in dire need of basic supplies, including food, water, and shelter, as they await a resolution to the crisis.
Relief agencies and humanitarian organizations are urged to step in and provide assistance to those affected. Community leaders have also appealed for support from local and international donors to help address the immediate needs of the displaced population. Temporary shelters, medical supplies, and psychological support are critical to alleviating the suffering of those affected by the violence.
The renewed violence in Nkwanta serves as a grim reminder of the devastating impact of unresolved disputes. As security forces continue to patrol the area, the focus now shifts to finding a sustainable solution to the conflict. Stakeholders, including traditional leaders, local authorities, and government agencies, must work together to address the underlying issues fueling the violence and foster reconciliation among the feuding groups.
While the immediate priority remains the safety and well-being of displaced residents, long-term efforts are needed to prevent further outbreaks of violence in Nkwanta. The plight of those who have fled their homes highlights the urgent need for peacebuilding initiatives and dialogue among the affected communities.
The government, civil society organizations, and international partners must prioritize conflict resolution efforts in Nkwanta and other conflict-prone areas in Ghana. By addressing the root causes of disputes and promoting dialogue, it is possible to create an environment where communities can coexist peacefully.
As the people of Nkwanta grapple with the aftermath of the violence, the hope for a brighter and more peaceful future remains alive. However, achieving lasting peace will require collective efforts, unwavering commitment, and a shared vision for harmony among all stakeholders involved. For now, the displaced individuals and their families look forward to the day they can safely return to their homes and rebuild their lives free from the fear of conflict.
